Dock Supervisor

20 Saia Motor Freight Line LLC; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

20 Saia Motor Freight Line LLC is seeking a dedicated supervisor to oversee terminal dock operations, directing staff, and ensuring compliance with company policies and government regulations.

Responsibilities include daily inspections, coaching dockworkers on safety and equipment usage, reviewing reports to improve efficiency, and maintaining a safe, organized dock environment. This role requires DOT knowledge and a strong commitment to safety.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Authorized to work in the United States.
• Ability to read, write, communicate, and comprehend English for job tasks.

Responsibilities

• Oversee safe and efficient dock operations for all terminal staff.
• Direct and evaluate dockworkers to ensure proper equipment use and procedures.
• Conduct daily inspections to meet company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Train and coach dockworkers on safety, performance, and equipment usage.
• Review operational reports and recommend improvements to terminal efficiency and service.
• Promote a safe, clean, and organized dock environment.

Skills

Team leadership

Safety awareness

Communication

Training

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift certification

Hazmat training

Job description

Position Summary

Supervises terminal operations, including sorting, handling, loading, and unloading freight. Manages daily dockworker activities and ensures compliance with company policies and government regulations.

Major Tasks and Responsibilities

• Oversees safe and efficient dock operations for all terminal staff.
• Directs and evaluates dockworkers to ensure proper use of equipment and adherence to procedures.
• Conducts daily inspections to maintain compliance with company policies, Department of Transportation standards, and other regulatory requirements.
• Trains and coaches dockworkers on safety practices, operational performance, customer service, and equipment usage.
• Reviews operational reports and provides recommendations to improve terminal efficiency and service.
• Promotes and enforces a safe, clean, and organized dock environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Authorized to work in the United States.
• Must read, write, communicate and comprehend the English language in order to perform the various tasks of the job, including but not limited to: converse with co‑workers and members of the general public; understand oral and written instructions as well as governmental regulations; respond to questions and inquiries from management and government representatives; and accurately complete various shipping documents, reports and records required of the position.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of warehouse, freight, dock, forklift, or pallet jack experience.
• Prior supervisory experience.
• Strong knowledge of Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and safety procedures.
• Forklift certification or hazmat training.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in verifying shipments.

Work Conditions and Physical Demands

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Must stand, walk, bend, stoop, and lift throughout the shift.
• Frequently lift, push, pull, or carry freight up to 100 pounds; team lift or mechanical assistance required for heavier items.
• Regularly use hands and arms for handling freight, operating pallet jacks, and securing loads.
• Must climb on and off forklifts, trailers, and dock platforms safely.
• Must have adequate vision and hearing (with or without correction) to operate equipment, read labels, and follow safety signals.
• Must work in varying temperatures and weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow due to dock and yard exposure.
• Must work varying schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays based on operational demands.

Saia is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.